Getting Started with the Home Buying Process

How to Get Started Buying a Home

So you’re thinking of buying a home but aren’t sure where to start? I will help. I will lay out a few steps and then we can schedule a sit down appointment to go over the process and ensure you are comfortable and ready to being your journey.

Step 1: Talk with a lender! Getting a pre-qualification is a crucial step and it’s a relatively short process. The lender will give you an idea of what you can afford and how much your payments would be at different price points. They will also tell you about the different loan products available to you. Finding a lender you feel comfortable with is hugely important, you need to feel like you can ask questions and that they're willing to make sure you understand everything!

Step 2: Sit down with me and define roughly what you’re looking for. Do you need 3 bedrooms and a garage? Is a fenced yard a must have? Location? Schools? Figuring out what is in your dream home will help me go find it. We will also define your timeline for when you need to be moved. When we talk, I will also make sure you know what costs are associated with buying prior to the closing table. I’ll give you information but the earnest and option money, home inspections, appraisal, and survey are all costs you’ll incur before closing.

Step 3: Look at actual homes. Pictures can be deceiving and once we start touring homes, we will quickly figure out what works and what doesn’t for you. It’s important in this stage to be honest with me. You won’t hurt my feelings if you hate a house and I can’t tweak your search if I don’t know what you’re thinking.

Step 4: Find your dream home and write the offer!

That’s the general gist of how to get started buying a home. Have questions? Never be afraid to ask me! Answering questions is a large part of my job and educating buyers is one of my favorite parts.